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Single Idea 12676

[from 'The Metaphysics of Scientific Realism' by Brian Ellis, in 8. Modes of Existence / C. Powers and Dispositions / 2. Powers as Basic ]

Full Idea

A causal power can never be dependent on anything that does not have any causal powers.

Gist of Idea

Causal powers can't rest on things which lack causal power

Source

Brian Ellis (The Metaphysics of Scientific Realism [2009], 3)

Book Reference

Ellis,Brian: 'The Metaphysics of Scientific Realism' [Acument 2009], p.55


A Reaction

Sounds right, though you worry when philosophers make such bold assertions about such extreme generalities. But see Idea 12667. This is, of course, the key argument for saying that causal powers are the bedrock of reality, and of explanation.

Related Idea

Idea 12667 Metaphysics aims at the simplest explanation, without regard to testability [Ellis]